For seventeen years, author
Frank Fuerst cared for his wife after a diagnosis of early onset Alzheimer's Disease. In this book Alzheimer's Care
with Dignity, Mr. Fuerst gives practical and realistic advice, as well as information regarding the care of the Alzheimer's
patient in various stages of dementia and physical abilities. The reader is taken through early warning signs and the importance
of an accurate diagnosis as the hallmark to proper treatment interventions. Mr. Fuerst discusses legal and ethical concerns
which are relevant both to the patient and to the patient's family and caretakers. He discusses the pros and cons of medications
as well as dental and medical concerns that likely accompany most persons diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease.
On the practical side, the author discusses topics such as eating, bathing and dressing, issues of incontinence and behaviors
which might appear threatening to others. He then has a wonderful chapter about advice he was given, and he rates it as either
good or bad advice (as it applied to the care of his own wife). While the book is applicable to those specifically diagnosed
with the early onset dementia, there are many tips which also apply to those with later onset Alzheimer's, as well.
This is a practical and readable book which will give support and reinforcement to most any caretaker who struggles
with the tremendous task of providing dignity and quality of life to the Alzheimer's patient. It neither whitewashes nor
ignores the trials and tribulations of the caretaker. It was written with courage and conviction and is a must for thr reference
library of those compassionate persons dealing with Alzheimer's Disease.
Karen P. for Readers Favorite, Hawesville,
KY
This book contains practical solutions to the challenges faced by those caring for a family
member with early-onset Alzheimer's disease, based on the author's 17 years of experience caring for his wife. It
offers valuable solutions to dealing with difficult behaviors and activities of daily living, and it includes resources caregivers
can go to for additional information. This book is useful for family and professional caregivers.
National Institute
on Aging's ADEAR staff (Alzheimer's Disease Education & Referral Center)
What
a wonderful resource you have created. This is a true treasure for caregivers.
Anthony K. Sudler, President
and CEO, Alzheimer's Association, National Capital Area
When a caregiver wonders where do I begin, this book is the answer. Important resource for the caregiver.
Good get down to basics help.
Beverly J. Bach, Partner, Shoun, Bach, Walinsky, & Curran, P.C. (Retired),
Former Director, Fairfax County (VA) Bar Association Board
The author kept
his wife at home longer than any family I can think of. The matter of fact style of the book is very compelling.
I find it difficult to put it down. This book will serve as a very useful handbook for caregivers that they can keep referring
to as they care for their loved one with a progressive dementing illness. It will serve a real need for a practical nuts
and bolts approach to caregiving. This book is loaded with practical tips.
Andrew A. Schiavone, M.D., Former
Assistant Clinical Professor, Georgetown University Medical School, Multiple selections as one of the Woodward and White’s
Best Doctors in America
This is a unique book. It describes in useful and personal detail
the experiences learned. Few, if any, others have documented their experiences, their procedures, personal feelings, successes
and failures as is done in this volume. Frank's report and guidance born of experience can be a huge benefit. This ready
reference to successful caregiving should be in every home faced with a dementia case, and perhaps those caring for other
chronically ill loved ones. Use of Frank's advice can save countless hours of painful experimentation and enable more
time to enjoy the quality of life that may remain with each patient.
Rear Admiral Donald M. Showers, USN
(Retired), longtime caregiver and Former Director, Alzheimer's Association, National Capitol Area Chapter Board
In reviewing Frank's account of his wife's battle with Alzheimer's
disease, it is impossible not to be moved by his obvious love and compassion. He has shared with us the many difficult lessons
he has learned as her caregiver to benefit others in a similar situation. We are all enriched by his dignity and courage.
Joanne G. Crantz, M.D. Division Chief, Geriatrics, Inova Fairfax Hospital, Assistant Professor of Medicine,
George Washington University
What Frank has written is accurate and factual. Well
done!
Bruce W. Jay, D.D.S., P.C., Former Assistant Professor of Dentistry, Georgetown University
Frank has done an excellent job of researching the subject and compiling his thoughts. These are helpful suggestions
for all situations regarding terminal illnesses. He has done a fine job of presenting the necessary steps and issues
when dealing with this disease.
Marvin G. Parker, M.D., FACP, VP Corporate Medical Affairs, SC Johnson (Retired).
The accurate technical information is important and Frank does an excellent job.
What is more important is that those reading Frank's book will know that they are not alone. Care-giving can be a lonely
job and many view their exhaustion, loneliness and frustration as unique. While each specific situation may be unique, it
is crucial for caregivers to feel connected, to understand that it is common to feel angry, impatient, and frustrated. I commend
Frank for sharing not only information, but emotions as well.
Jane Marks, Executive Director, Alzheimer’s
Association, West Virginia Chapter
This book is a ‘must have’ for
ALL caregivers of a person with a chronic debilitating disease, not just Alzheimer’s. It is the most complete book of
resources including everything from financial to legal, to how to select a Day Care Center, a Nursing Home for Respite Care,
how to handle dental and medical visits, prescription drugs, helpful products, people other than the primary caregiver providing
care. The second part of the book deals with ‘day to day’ living and includes bathing, eating/feeding, dressing,
continence, moving from place to place and the last chapter, ‘Good Examples of Bad Advice’. Each chapter is written
in the same easy to read format that includes each of the Alzheimer’s stages, Independent, Companionship, Dependent
and Final. Each chapter ends with a section called "Lessons Learned." Mr. Fuerst sets the stage for any of us who
are or might become caregivers. There doesn’t seem to be anything left out! The resources included are endless.
Betty Yurkewitch, RN, FCN, Congregation Health Partnership, Inova Health System (VA)